Tennessee, Ga. Tech may battle for 2017 opener inside new Falcons stadium
In a matter of weeks, organizers for the 2017 Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game in Atlanta could formally announce its matchup involving Tennessee and Georgia Tech, Yellow Jackets athletic director Mike Bobinski confirmed Tuesday at the ACC spring meetings, according to the AJC.
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl president Gary Stokan is reportedly waiting on informational data from the Atlanta Falcons to ensure the game can be played at their new stadium set to open for the 2017 season. Contracts won’t be drawn until that information is received according to Bobinksi.
The Vols and Yellow Jackets would be one of the first teams to play in the state-of-the-art downtown facility.
“All signs are very good,” Bobinski said according to the AJC. “Like everything, I’ll feel better when I see it and we sign it, but I’ve got no indication other than it’s happening and we’re still good to go.”
Tennessee last played in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game in 2012, beating North Carolina State, 35-21. Old SEC rival Georgia Tech hasn’t met up with the Vols since 1987.
If finalized, it would be the first of two possible SEC vs. ACC matchups during opening weekend in 2017. Alabama and Florida State are reportedly working out a deal to square off in Atlanta as well.
In 2016, the Seminoles will take on Ole Miss at the recently renovated Citrus Bowl in Orlando during kickoff weekend.